
Monster Train 2 melds the thrill of roguelike gameplay with the strategic depth of deckbuilding, enhanced by its unique tower defense elements. Players not only manage their card strategies but also position units on a train, creating a dynamic battlefield aimed at preventing enemies from reaching the engine’s top floor.
The game’s unit variety offers an impressive array of combinations that can be unleashed against adversaries once you unlock everything. However, for newcomers, the early game can feel daunting, especially when top-tier cards are not yet available. Fortunately, starting clans like The Banished and the Pyreborne provide several strong early-game options for strategizing your deck.
If you’re looking for guidance on effective units to include during your initial runs, you’re in the right place. Below is a compilation of the most effective early-game units in Monster Train 2.
1. Snotty Whelp
My Nickname In High School

Despite its low attack and health statistics, the Snotty Whelp stands out due to its cooldown ability. Sulk it at the back line for protective measures, as its Gellysneeze skill inflicts a stackable 10 Pyregel on the enemy’s front unit. Pyregel functions similarly to poisons or burns found in other games, dealing ongoing damage each turn while allowing your units to attack consistently. Given the relatively short cooldown of Gellysneeze, maximizing its use can quickly whittle down enemy forces.
2. Firebrand
Battle Forged

Firebrand boasts solid base stats, making it a hybrid between a tank and a damage-dealer. Placing Firebrand at the front line is typically advisable, as the unit gains +2 Valor each time it is attacked, enhancing both its armor and damage output. While Firebrand may not have the most extravagant abilities, it consistently provides value over the course of early engagements.
3. Swordmaiden
Always Equipped

For players equipped with a selection of equipment cards, Swordmaiden proves to be an invaluable ally. Each time she’s deployed, she instantly adds an equipment card to your hand, thereby increasing your options without waiting for random draws. Creating more certainty in your card draws is pivotal for advanced strategizing in deck-building games.
4. Avenger
Marvel At Him

While Avenger remains locked until you level up the Banished clan, this unit is worth the wait. With 20 attack and 40 health, Avenger shines in both offensive and defensive roles. His revenge ability, which inflicts melee weakness on an attacker, enhances strategic implications during combat. Placing Avenger in the front maximizes his potential for triggering this advantageous ability.
5. Magma Mauler
Stack That Pyregel

Trust me, the Magma Mauler can turn the tide in your favor. Allowing multiple attacks that stack a formidable 8 Pyregel per hit, this unit can cripple enemy forces significantly. Upgrading it to have Quick ability can make a dramatic difference, allowing for first strikes in each turn and ensuring your advantage continues to build on the battlefield.
6. Zealot
It’s A Sweep

Zealot may not have the highest raw output of Pyregel, but its sweep modifier allows it to attack all enemies simultaneously. When used in conjunction with other Pyregel-focused cards, it becomes a powerful asset. Although the energy cost is higher, the payoff is well worth it in the early game.
7. Lord Fenix
Don’t Let The Battle Drag On

As the Champion of the Pyreborne clan, Lord Fenix comes with unique advantages, such as the absence of an energy cost to deploy. However, its size in capacity consumption can limit its effectiveness. While Lord Fenix does have decent abilities, early upgrades are needed to realize its full potential in combat.
8. Greed Dragon
Hoard Rewards

Hailing as a formidable powerhouse, Greed Dragon functions as both a sturdy tank and a significant damage dealer with 35 HP. Its impact skyrockets with the potential to summon Dragon Hoard, providing significant power boosts to its stats. When maxed out, Greed Dragon can reach staggering attack and health numbers, making it a formidable unit to have early in your runs.
9. Steadfast Crusader
Shovel Knight On Steroids

As one of the strongest non-Champion units early in the game, Steadfast Crusader can turn the tide in your favor when fully upgraded. Thanks to its Slam ability, which deals damage based on the total HP and Armor remaining, it can become an overpowered threat with the right support cards. Strategically duplicating this unit can also fill your floors with overwhelming strength.
10. Up
RIP To Every Enemy

Having transitioned from a formidable boss to a powerful unit in your deck, Fel brings her unique multistrike ability to the table, allowing for two melee hits every turn. Although her base stats aren’t extraordinary, her abilities can scale dramatically with careful upgrades. By selecting upgrades that maintain her Savior ability, you can ensure that she deals significant damage consistently, making her an invaluable asset early on.
By leveraging these top units, your strategy in Monster Train 2 will become increasingly effective, improving your chances of triumph as you navigate through numerous challenging runs.
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